Method for Mounting Electrical Boxes

ABSTRACT

A method for mounting an electrical box to a structural element of a building includes drilling an opening in a structural element, and passing a tubular portion associated with an electrical box through the opening in the structural element. The tubular portion is locked in position with respect to the structural element.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part application which claimspriority to U.S. Utility application Ser. No. 15/496,971, filed Apr. 25,2017, which in turn claims priority to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/326,974 filed Apr. 26, 2016, both of which arehereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The electrical wiring in a structure is protected from moisture,flammable gas, chemical vapors, impact, and the like by being placed inelectrical conduit. Electrical conduit has many diameters and istypically made from metal (e.g., steel, aluminum, etc.) or plastics(e.g., polyvinyl chloride (PVC), etc.). Local building codes and theU.S. National Electrical Code (NEC) specify the form and installationdetails for electrical conduit.

Current conduit systems, however, are cumbersome to install and requirethe use of tools. What is needed is a simple and fast method ofprotecting wires traveling through studs for installing complete systemsof electrical conduit without the use of tools.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a stud wire protector. The stud wireprotector includes: a first hollow cylindrical and a second hollowcylindrical member. Methods of inserting the stud wire protector arealso provided.

The present invention also provides an electrical conduit couplingsystem. The electrical conduit coupling system includes: two or morestud wire protectors and two or more conduit couplers. Methods ofattaching the electrical conduit coupling system to two or more studsare also provided.

The stud wire protector provides protection of the wires passing thereinfrom external damage from nails, screws, drills, and the like to preventpotential arc fault conditions. It provides a smooth surface to ease theprocess of pulling wire through which also protects wire from scrapesduring the installation process.

The electrical conduit coupling system provides a simple and fast wayfor a user to insert electrical conduit in a structure without the useof tools. The electrical conduit coupling system comes in multiple sizesto accommodate all sizes of conduit.

The present invention provides a stud wire protector. The stud wireprotector includes: a first hollow cylindrical member having a proximalend, a distal end, and configured to extend through and not beyond astud; a second hollow cylindrical member having a first fitting at aproximal end and a second fitting at a distal end; wherein the secondhollow cylindrical member is configured to fit within the first hollowcylindrical member, wherein the first fitting is configured to insertwithin and to extend beyond the proximal end of the first hollowcylindrical member, and wherein second fitting is configured to extendbeyond distal end of the first hollow cylindrical member.

In one embodiment, the first fitting is a press-fitting. In oneembodiment, the first fitting is a tapered press-fitting. In oneembodiment, the second fitting is a tapered fitting. In one embodiment,the second hollow cylindrical member has one or more indentations aroundthe circumference at the proximal end.

The present invention provides a stud wire protector. The stud wireprotector includes: a first hollow cylindrical member having a proximalend, a distal end, and configured to extend through and not beyond astud; a second hollow cylindrical member having a first press-fitting ata proximal end and a second fitting at a distal end; wherein the secondhollow cylindrical member is configured to fit within the first hollowcylindrical member, wherein the first press-fitting is configured toinsert within and to extend beyond the proximal end of the first hollowcylindrical member, and wherein second fitting is configured to extendbeyond distal end of the first hollow cylindrical member.

In one embodiment, the first fitting is a tapered press-fitting. In oneembodiment, the second fitting is a tapered fitting. In one embodiment,the second hollow cylindrical member has one or more indentations aroundthe circumference at the proximal end.

The present invention provides a stud wire protector. The stud wireprotector includes: a first hollow cylindrical member having a proximalend, a distal end, and configured to extend through and not beyond astud; a second hollow cylindrical member having a first taperedpress-fitting at a proximal end and a second tapered fitting at a distalend; wherein the second hollow cylindrical member is configured to fitwithin the first hollow cylindrical member, wherein the first taperedpress-fitting is configured to insert within and to extend beyond theproximal end of the first hollow cylindrical member, and wherein secondtapered fitting is configured to extend beyond distal end of the firsthollow cylindrical member. In one embodiment, the second hollowcylindrical member has one or more indentations around the circumferenceat the proximal end.

The present invention provides a method of attaching stud wire protectorto a stud, the method includes: providing a stud wire protectorcomprising: a first hollow cylindrical member having a proximal end, adistal end, and configured to extend through a stud; a second hollowcylindrical member having a first fitting at a proximal end and a secondfitting at a distal end; wherein the second hollow cylindrical member isconfigured to fit within the first hollow cylindrical member, whereinthe first fitting is configured to insert within and to extend beyondthe proximal end of the first hollow cylindrical member, wherein secondfitting is configured to extend beyond distal end of

the first hollow cylindrical member; and inserting and seeming the studwire protector into a pre-drilled hole in a stud.

The present invention provides an electrical conduit coupling system.The electrical conduit coupling system includes: two or more stud wireprotectors each independently including: a first hollow cylindricalmember having a proximal end, a distal end, and configured to extendthrough and not beyond a stud: a second hollow cylindrical member havinga first fitting at a proximal end and a second fitting at a distal end;wherein the second hollow cylindrical member is configured to fit withinthe first hollow cylindrical member, wherein the first fitting isconfigured to insert within and to extend beyond the proximal end of thefirst hollow cylindrical member, wherein second fitting is configured toextend beyond distal end of the first hollow cylindrical member: two ormore conduit couplers each having a proximal end and a distal end,wherein the two or more conduit couplers are each independentlyconfigured at each proximal end to accept the first fitting and thesecond fitting, and wherein the two or more conduit couplers areconfigured at each distal end to accept a spring and an end ofelectrical conduit.

In one embodiment the first fitting is a press-fitting. In oneembodiment, the first fitting is a tapered press-fitting. In oneembodiment, the tapered press-fitting has a proximal end with a diameterless than a diameter of a distal end. In one embodiment, the secondfitting is a tapered fitting. In one embodiment, the tapered fitting hasa proximal end with a diameter greater than a diameter of a distal end.In one embodiment, the second hollow cylindrical member has one or moreindentations around the circumference at the proximal end to theinterior to allow for the proximal end of the second hollow cylindricalmember to contract when the second hollow cylindrical member is insertedinto the first hollow cylindrical member. In one embodiment, the two ormore conduit couplers each independently comprise an internal cavity atthe proximal end that accepts the exterior of the first fitting and thesecond fitting. In one embodiment, the two or more conduit couplers eachindependently comprise a tapered internal cavity at the proximal endthat accepts a tapered exterior of the first fitting and the secondfitting. In one embodiment, the two or more conduit couplers eachindependently comprise a circular cavity at the distal end that acceptsa spring and an end of electrical conduit. In one embodiment, theelectrical conduit is polyvinyl chloride (PVC) electrical conduit.

The present invention provides an electrical conduit coupling system.The electrical conduit coupling system includes: two or more stud wireprotectors each independently including: a first hollow cylindricalmember having a proximal end, a distal end, and configured to extendthrough and not beyond a. stud; a second hollow cylindrical memberhaving a first press-fitting at a proximal end and a second fitting at adistal end; wherein the second hollow cylindrical member is configuredto fit within the first hollow cylindrical member, wherein the firstpress-fitting is configured to insert within and to extend beyond theproximal end of the first hollow cylindrical member, wherein secondfitting is configured to extend beyond distal end of the first hollowcylindrical member; two or more conduit couplers each having a proximalend and a distal end, wherein the two or more conduit couplers are eachindependently configured at each proximal end to accept the firstpress-fitting and the second fitting, and wherein the two or moreconduit couplers are configured at each distal end to accept a springand an end of electrical conduit.

In one embodiment, the first press-fitting is a tapered press-fitting.In one embodiment, the tapered press-fitting has a proximal end with adiameter less than a diameter of a distal end. In one embodiment, thesecond fitting is a tapered fitting. In one embodiment, the taperedfitting has a proximal end with a diameter greater than a diameter of adistal end. In one embodiment, the second hollow cylindrical member hasone or more indentations around the circumference at the proximal end tothe interior to allow for the proximal end of the second hollowcylindrical member to contract when the second hollow cylindrical memberis inserted in to the first hollow cylindrical member. In oneembodiment, the two or more conduit couplers each independently comprisean internal cavity at the proximal end that accepts the exterior of thefirst press-fitting and the second fitling. In one embodiment, the twoor more conduit couplers each independently comprise a tapered internalcavity at the proximal end that accepts a tapered exterior of the firstpress-fitting and the second fitting. In one embodiment, the two or moreconduit couplers each independently comprise a circular cavity at thedistal end that accepts a spring and an end of electrical conduit. Inone embodiment, the electrical conduit is polyvinyl chloride (PVC)electrical conduit.

The present invention provides an electrical conduit coupling system.The electrical conduit coupling system includes: two or more stud wireprotectors each independently including: a first hollow cylindricalmember having a proximal end, a distal end, and configured to extendthrough and not beyond a stud; a second hollow cylindrical member havinga first tapered press-fitting at a proximal end and a second taperedfitting at a distal end: wherein the second hollow cylindrical member isconfigured to fit within the first hollow cylindrical member. whereinthe first tapered press-fitting is configured to insert within and toextend beyond the proximal end of the first hollow cylindrical member,wherein second tapered fitting is configured to extend beyond distal endof the first hollow cylindrical member; two or more conduit couplerseach having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the two or moreconduit couplers

are each independently configured at each proximal end to accept thefirst tapered press-fitting and the second tapered fitting, and whereinthe two or more conduit couplers are configured at each distal end toaccept a spring and an end of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) electricalconduit.

In one embodiment, the first tapered press-fitting has a proximal endwith a diameter less than a diameter of a distal end. In one embodimentthe second tapered fitting has a proximal end with a diameter greaterthan a diameter of a distal end. In one embodiment, the second hollowcylindrical member has one or more indentations around the circumferenceat the proximal end to the interior to allow for the proximal end of thesecond hollow cylindrical member to contract when the second hollowcylindrical member is inserted into the first hollow cylindrical member.In one embodiment, the two or more conduit couplers each independentlycomprise an internal cavity at the proximal end that accepts theexterior of the first tapered press-fitting and the second taperedfitting. In one embodiment, the two or more conduit couplers eachindependently comprise a tapered internal cavity at the proximal endthat accepts the tapered exterior of the first tapered press-fitting andthe second tapered fitting. In one embodiment, the two or more conduitcouplers each independently comprise a circular cavity at the distal endthat accepts a spring and an end of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) electricalconduit. In one embodiment, the first hollow cylindrical member, thesecond hollow cylindrical member, the two or more conduit couplers, or acombination thereof each independently comprise polyvinyl chloride(PVC).

The present invention provides a method of attaching an electricalconduit coupling system to two or more studs. The method includes:providing an electrical conduit coupling system including: two or morestud wire protectors each independently including: a first hollowcylindrical member having a proximal end, a distal end, and configuredto extend through and not beyond a stud: a second hollow cylindricalmember having a first fitting at a proximal end and a second fitting ata distal end; wherein the second hollow cylindrical member is configuredto fit within the first hollow cylindrical member, wherein the firstfitting is configured to insert within and to extend beyond the proximalend of the first hollow cylindrical member, wherein second fitting isconfigured to extend beyond distal end of the first hollow cylindricalmember; two or more conduit couplers each having a proximal end and adistal end, wherein the two or more conduit couplers are eachindependently configured at each proximal end to accept the firstfitting and the second fitting, wherein the two or more conduit couplersare configured at each distal end to accept a spring and an end ofelectrical conduit inserting and securing the two or more stud wireprotectors into two or more pre-drilled holes in two or more adjacentstuds; inserting two or more springs into each of the distal ends of twoor more conduit couplers; inserting each end of an electrical conduitinto the distal ends of two or more conduit couplers that each contain aspring to provide an electrical conduit assembly; attaching a first endof the electrical conduit assembly to a first stud fitting secured in afirst stud; and attaching a second end of the electrical conduitassembly to a second stud fitting secured in a second stud.

The present invention provides a method of attaching an electricalconduit coupling system to two or more studs. The method includes:providing a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) electrical conduit coupling systemincluding: two or more stud wire protectors each independentlyincluding: a first hollow cylindrical member having a proximal end, adistal end, and configured to extend through and not beyond a stud; asecond hollow cylindrical member having a first fitting at a proximalend and a second fitting at a distal end; wherein the second hollowcylindrical member is configured to fit within the first hollowcylindrical member, wherein the first fitting is configured to insertwithin and to extend beyond the proximal end of the first hollowcylindrical member, wherein second fitting is configured to extendbeyond distal end of the first hollow cylindrical member; two or moreconduit couplers each having a proximal end and a distal end, whereinthe two or more conduit couplers are each independently configured ateach proximal end to accept the first fitting and the second fitting,wherein the two or more conduit couplers are configured at each distalend to accept a spring and an end of electrical conduit; inserting andsecuring the two or more stud wire protectors into two or morepre-drilled holes in two or more adjacent studs; inserting two or moresprings into each of the distal ends of two or more conduit couplers;inserting each end of a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) electrical conduit intothe distal ends of two or more conduit couplers that each contain aspring to provide a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) electrical conduitassembly; attaching a first end of the polyvinyl chloride (PVC)electrical conduit assembly to a first stud fitting secured in a firststud; and attaching a second end of the polyvinyl chloride (PVC)electrical conduit assembly to a second stud fitting secured in a secondstud.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention may be best understood by referring to thefollowing description and accompanying drawings, which illustrate suchembodiments. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective drawing illustrating an exemplary electricalconduit coupling system.

FIG. 2 is a perspective drawing illustrating an exemplary electricalconduit coupling system.

FIG. 3 is a perspective drawing illustrating an exemplary electricalconduit coupling system.

FIG. 4 is a perspective drawing illustrating exemplary stud wireprotectors and pre-drilled studs.

FIG. 5 is a perspective drawing illustrating an exemplary stud wireprotector that includes a first hollow cylindrical member and a secondhollow cylindrical member.

FIG. 6 is a perspective drawing illustrating an exemplary stud wireprotector.

FIG. 7 is a bottom-view drawing illustrating an exemplary stud wireprotector.

FIG. 8 is a top-view drawing illustrating an exemplary stud wireprotector.

FIG. 9 is a perspective drawing illustrating an exemplary conduitcoupler.

FIG. 10 is a side-view drawing illustrating an exemplary conduitcoupler.

FIG. 1i is a bottom-view drawing illustrating an exemplary conduitcoupler.

FIG. 12 is a top-view drawing illustrating an exemplary conduit coupler.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary method of using anexemplary electrical conduit coupling system, according to an exampleembodiment.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary method of using anexemplary electrical conduit coupling system.

FIG. 15 is a first side view of an electrical box, according to anexample embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a second side view of an electrical box that includes apartial cross-sectional view portion corresponding to cutline A-A inFIG. 17, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a front view of an electrical box, according to an exampleembodiment.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of box being attached to another similarbox, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a side view of a electrical box and a side plate, accordingto another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 20A is a perspective view of the box as assembled with the boxmount bracket, mounting tube or mounting tube assembly, and slidebracket.

FIG. 20B is another perspective view of the box as assembled with thebox mount bracket, mounting tube or mounting tube assembly, and slidebracket.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an electrical box for accommodating atleast two duplex electrical outlets, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 22A is a perspective view of a box as assembled with the box mountbracket, mounting tube or mounting tube assembly, and slide bracket,according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 22B is another perspective view of the box as assembled with thebox mount bracket, mounting tube or mounting tube assembly, and slidebracket, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 23 shows a two gang box having a fixed offset and an opening forthe mounting tube assembly 1950, according to another exampleembodiment.

FIG. 24 is a flow chart for a method of mounting an electrical box,according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a flow chart for a method of mounting an electrical box to astructural element of a building, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 26 is a flow chart for a method of wiring a building or edifice,according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 27 is top view of a tie for holding an electrical wire or aplurality of electrical wires, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 28 is side view of a tie holding an electrical wire or a pluralityof electrical wires (not shown), according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 29 is a top view of a base, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 30 is a side view of a base, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 31 is a flow diagram of a method for holding an electricalconductor, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of an alternative box and an end portion,according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of an alternative box and an intermediateportion, according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 34 is perspective view of an alternative box, a plurality ofintermediate portions and an end portion assembled into a multiple gangelectrical box, according to an example embodiment.

The drawings are not necessarily to scale. Like numbers used in thefigures refer to like components, steps, and the like. However, it willbe understood that the use of a number to refer to a component in agiven figure is not intended to limit the component in another figurelabeled with the same number.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a stud wire protector. The stud wireprotector includes: a first hollow cylindrical and a second hollowcylindrical member. Methods of inserting the stud wire protector arealso provided.

The present invention also provides an electrical conduit couplingsystem. The electrical conduit coupling system includes: two or morestud wire protectors and two or more conduit couplers. Methods ofattaching the electrical conduit coupling system to two or more studsare also provided.

The following detailed description includes references to theaccompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description.The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in whichthe invention may be practiced. These embodiments, which are alsoreferred to herein as “examples,” are described in enough detail toenable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Theembodiments may be combined, other embodiments may be utilized, orstructural, and logical changes may be made without departing from thescope of the present invention. The following detailed description is,therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of thepresent invention is defined by the appended claims and theirequivalents.

Before the present invention is described in such detail, however, it isto be understood that this invention is not limited to particularvariations set forth and may, of course, vary. Various changes may bemade to the invention described and equivalents may be substitutedwithout departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention. Inaddition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particularsituation, material, composition of matter, process, process act(s) orstep(s), to the objective(s), spirit or scope of the present invention.All such modifications are intended to be within the scope of the claimsmade herein.

Methods recited herein may be carried out in any order of the recitedevents which is logically possible, as well as the recited order ofevents. Furthermore, where a range of values is provided, it isunderstood that every intervening value, between the upper and lowerlimit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in thatstated range is encompassed within the invention. Also, it iscontemplated that any optional feature of the inventive variationsdescribed may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combinationwith any one or more of the features described herein.

The referenced items are provided solely for their disclosure prior tothe filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to beconstrued as an admission that the present invention is not entitled toantedate such material by virtue of prior invention.

Unless otherwise indicated, the words and phrases presented in thisdocument have their ordinary meanings to one of skill in the art. Suchordinary meanings can be obtained by reference to their use in the artand by reference to general and scientific dictionaries, for example,Webster's Third New International Dictionary, Merriam-Webster Inc.,Springfield, M A, 1993 and The American Heritage Dictionary of theEnglish Language, Houghton Mifflin, Boston Mass., 1981.

References in the specification to “one embodiment” indicate that theembodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include theparticular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrasesare not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when aparticular feature, structure, or characteristic is described inconnection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within theknowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure,or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or notexplicitly described.

The following explanations of certain terms are meant to be illustrativerather than exhaustive. These terms have their ordinary meanings givenby usage in the art and in addition include the following explanations.

As used herein, the term “and/or” refers to any one of the items, anycombination of the items, or all of the items with which this term isassociated.

As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include pluralreference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is furthernoted that the claims may be drafted to exclude any optional element Assuch, this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use ofsuch exclusive terminology as “solely,” “only,” and the like inconnection with the recitation of claim elements, or use of a “negative”limitation.

As used herein, the term “comprising⋅’ or “comprises” is intended tomean that the compositions and methods include the recited elements, hutnot excluding others.

As used herein, the term “coupled” means the joining of two membersdirectly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary innature or movable in nature and/or such joining may allow for theflow⋅of fluids, electricity, electrical signals, or other types ofsignals or communication between two members. Such joining may beachieved with the two members or the two members and any additionalintermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary bodywith one another or with the two members or the two members and anyadditional intermediate members being attached to one another. Suchjoining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable orreleasable in nature.

As used herein, the phrase “operatively coupled” refers to bringing twoor more items together or into relationship with each other such thatthey may operate together or allow transfer of information between thetwo or more items.

As used herein, the terms “include,” “for example,” “such as” and thelike are used illustratively and are not intended to limit the presentinvention.

As used herein, the terms “preferred” and “preferably” refer toembodiments of the invention that may afford certain benefits, undercertain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred,under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the recitation ofone or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodimentsare not useful and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from thescope of the invention.

As used herein, the term “proximal” refers to the closest end of anobject. In contrast, the term “distal” refers to the farthest end of anobject.

As used herein, the terms “front,” “back,” “rear,” “upper,” “lower,”“right,” and “left” in this description are merely used to identify thevarious elements as they are oriented in the FIGS, with “front,” “back,”and “rear” being relative apparatus. These terms are not meant to limitthe element which they describe, as the various elements may be orienteddifferently in various applications.

It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. maybe used herein to describe various elements, these elements should notbe limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish oneelement from another. For example, a first element could be termed asecond element and, similarly, a second element could be termed a firstelement without departing from the teachings of the disclosure.

The invention illustratively disclosed herein suitably may be practicedin the absence of any element which is not specifically disclosedherein.

FIGS. 1-3 are perspective drawing illustrating an exemplary electricalconduit coupling system 100. The electrical conduit coupling system 100includes: two stud wire protectors 101 and two conduit couplers 102. Thetwo stud wire protectors 101 are configured to extend through and notbeyond the side of a stud 104. The two conduit couplers 102 each have aproximal end that is configured to accept both ends of the stud wireprotectors 101. The distal end of the two conduit couplers 102 areconfigured with an internal cavity to accept a spring 105 followed by anend of electrical conduit 103.

To assemble the electrical conduit coupling system 100, the springs 105are inserted into each of the cavities in the distal end of each of thetwo conduit couplers 102. The ends of a pre-cut piece of electricalconduit 103 are inserted into each of the two conduit couplers 102containing springs 105 to provide a conduit assembly. Finally, theconduit assembly is compressed by the user (not shown) and each end isinserted into the ends of the wall fittings 101 in the studs 104. Oncethe conduit assembly is in place, the user (not shown) releases thetension on the conduit assembly and the conduit assembly fits snugglyinto place. This process is continued until the electrical conduit forthe room is in place. At that time, the electrical wires are insertedinto the conduit.

To disassemble the electrical conduit coupling system 100, the user (notshown) compresses the conduit assembly, removes the conduit assemblyfrom the structure, compresses the press-fitting on the proximal end ofeach of the wall fittings 101, and removes the wall fittings 101 fromthe studs 104.

FIG. 4 is a perspective drawing illustrating an exemplary stud wireprotector 101 and studs 104 that contain pre-drilled holes 106. The wallfittings 101 are inserted with pressure into the pre-drilled holes 106in the studs 104 so that both ends of the wall fittings 101 protrudefrom the surface of the studs 104.

FIGS. 5-8 are drawings illustrating an exemplary stud wire protector 101that includes a first hollow cylindrical member 107 and a second hollowcylindrical member 108. The first hollow cylindrical member 107 is atubular sleeve that has a length less than or equal to the width of astud in which the stud wire protector is to be used. In a residentialsetting using balloon wall construction uses 2″×4″ studs which inreality are 1.5″ in width. In many commercial settings the studs usedare the same width. In other commercial settings metal studs areemployed which may have a different width dimension. It is to beunderstood that the length of the tubular sleeve 107 can be anydimension so that in application the length of the tubular sleeve isabout equal to the width of the stud used in wall construction.

In other words, the first hollow cylindrical member or sleeve 107 has alength substantially equal to the width of a stud into which it will beplaced. In some applications, it may be necessary to protect againstnail penetration across a pair of studs. In this case the first hollowcylindrical member or sleeve 107 has a length substantially equal to thewidth of a pair of studs. It should be understood the first hollowcylindrical member or sleeve 107 can have a number of different lengthsand that in most instances the length will be related to the width of astud (1.5 inches) or a multiple thereof. The most common length of thesleeve 107 will be for the width of a single stud since this is the mostcommon in frame construction for residences and some commercialbuildings. The sleeve also has an inner diameter that will allow wire topass within the sleeve. The sleeve has an outer diameter smaller thanthat associated with an opening in a common stud. In that way, thesleeve 107 and the wire protector 107 fit within the stud.

The first hollow cylindrical member or sleeve 107 is made of a materialthat will resist or prevent a nail or other fastener from penetratingthe sleeve. The sleeve can be made of steel of sufficient thickness tostop a fastener either being pounded or screwed into a stud with ahammer or screwdriver, or to stop a nail from a nail gun. The firsthollow cylindrical member 107 has a proximal end, a distal end, and isconfigured to extend through and not beyond a stud (not shown). Thematerial, in one embodiment, has a Rockwell hardness index value in therange of 120-200. In another embodiment, the Rockwell hardness indexvalue in the range of 140-180. In still a further embodiment, theRockwell hardness index value in the range of 150-170. In anotherembodiment, the Rockwell hardness index value in the range of 157-164.

The material forming the sleeve must be sufficiently hard to resistpenetration from various fasteners that might be placed into the formedwall at a later time. It should also be noted that the material can notbe brittle such that it would crack when a sharp end of the fastenercontacted the sleeve. Materials contemplated are galvanized steel,steel, stainless steel, ceramics, composite materials, and the like.Metals may be heat treated in various ways to provide a hard, exteriorsurface.

The hole in the stud can also be placed so that it is at a uniformdistance above the floor or the bottom plate of a stud wall. The hole inthe stud can also be placed at a uniform distance set back from thefront face of the stud. These dimensions could be part of a buildingcode or could be within a range set by a building code. In oneembodiment, a jig is provided so that the openings in the studs of awall frame are substantially uniform. In this case, the holes oropenings in the studs would be substantially aligned so that pullingwire through the openings could be done with less effort.

The second hollow cylindrical member 108 has a first fitting 109 at aproximal end and a second fitting 110 at a distal end. The second hollowcylindrical member 108 is configured to fit within the first hollowcylindrical member or sleeve 107. The first fitting 109 is configured toinsert within and to extend beyond the proximal end of the first hollowcylindrical member or sleeve 107. The second fitting 110 is configuredto extend beyond distal end of the first hollow cylindrical member 107when the second hollow cylindrical member 108 is inserted into the firsthollow cylindrical member 107 or sleeve.

In one embodiment, the first fitting 109 is a press-fitting. In oneembodiment, the press-fitting is a tapered press-fitting as shown. Inone embodiment, the second fitting 110 is a tapered fitting as shown. Inthe embodiment shown, the second hollow cylindrical member 108 has asubstantially tubular body. The ends of the substantially tubular bodycarry the first fitting 109 and the second fitting 110. The outsidediameter of the second hollow cylindrical member 108 is substantiallyequal to the inner diameter of the sleeve 107. Generally, the outsidediameter of the second hollow cylindrical member 108 is slightly lessthe inner diameter of the sleeve 107 to allow for easy assembly of thesleeve and second hollow cylindrical member 108. The second fitting 110has a substantially tubular body with an outside diameter that allowsthe second fitting to fit within the inner diameter of the sleeve 107.At each end of the substantially tubular body of the second fitting is aflange. The flange has a rim with an outside diameter greater than thediameter of the first hollow cylindrical member or sleeve 107. Theflange outside diameter of each flange of the second fitting is alsogreater than the diameter of the opening or hole in the stud into whichit will be placed. In one embodiment, the second hollow cylindricalmember 108 has an end with one or more indentations 111 that extend fromthe proximal end toward the interior to allow for the proximal end ofthe second hollow cylindrical member 108 to contract when the secondhollow cylindrical member 108 is inserted into the first hollowcylindrical member 107. The indentations or slots 111 in the flange aswell as the main body form flexible fingers which comprise the secondfitting 108. The fingers are between the indentations 111 or slits. Thesecond hollow cylindrical member 108 is made of a material that willallow the fingers formed to move through an elastic range so that thefingers can bend when inserted into a hole or opining within a stud andthen return to an original position without plastic deformation. Thestud wire protector 101 can then pass through the opening and snap orlock into a position when the fingers formed snap back to their originalposition. In other words, the slotted or indented end is also insertedinto an opening or hole in a stud. As the end is inserted, the fingersbend elastically so that the flange on that end can pass through theopening. The fingers bounce back and return to the original positionupon passing through the opening in the stud. This locks the stud wireprotector 101 into place as the stud is captured between the slottedflange end and the solid flange end of the stud wire protector 101.

The wire protector 101 can be removed from the stud by pressing thefingers inwardly until the fingers are at a smaller diameter than theopening or hole in the stud. The wire protector 101 can then be moved sothat the fingers are touching the inner wall of the opening. These canthen be moved further until the wire protector is out of the opening inthe stud.

FIGS. 9-13 are various drawings illustrating an exemplary conduitcoupler 102.

The conduit coupler 102 includes a tapered internal cavity 112 at theproximal end that accepts a tapered exterior of the first fitting 109and the second fitting 110 that are contained in the wall fittings 101.In other words, the conduit coupler 102 includes a tapered cavity 112shaped to receive one or both of the flanged ends of the stud wireprotector 101. In this case, the stud wire protector 101 is positionedin an opening in a stud in a framed up wall. In one embodiment, theconduit coupler 102 includes a circular cavity 113 at the distal endthat accepts a spring 106 and an end of electrical conduit 103.

In one embodiment, the electrical conduit 103 is polyvinyl chloride(PVC) electrical conduit. In one embodiment, the electrical conduit 103is a metal electrical conduit. In one embodiment, the electrical conduit103 is a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) electrical conduit.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary method 200 of usingan exemplary electrical conduit coupling system. In step 201, the userinserts and secures two stud wire protectors 101 into the pre-drilledholes in a set of adjacent studs. In step 202, the user inserts a springinto each of two conduit couplers. In step 203, the user inserts eachend of a piece of electrical conduit into each of the two conduitcouplers. Finally, in step 204, the user attaches each end of theelectrical conduit assembly to the two stud wire protectors.

FIG. 17 is a front view of an electrical box 1500, according to anexample embodiment. FIG. 15 is a first side view of an electrical box1500, according to an example embodiment. FIG. 16 is a second side viewof an electrical box 1500, according to an example embodiment. FIG. 16also includes a partial cross-sectional view portion corresponding tocutline A-A in FIG. 17. Now referring to FIGS. 15-17, the electrical box1500 will be further detailed. An electrical box 1500 includes a firstside 1510 and a second side 1520. The first side 1510 has a cut out 1512therein. The second side 1520 includes a first ridge 1521 and a secondridge 1522. Both the first ridge 1521 and the second ridge 1522 are onthe exterior portion of the second side 1520. The first ridge 1521 issubstantially parallel to the second ridge 1522. The first ridge 1521and the second ridge 1522 are spaced apart from one another at adistance d substantially equal to the distance d between the two sidesof the cut out 1512.

The first side 1510 has at least one locking tab 1514 positioned nearone edge of the cut out 1512. The second side 1520 has at least one slit1524 sized to receive a locking tab 1514 like the at least one lockingtab 1524 on the first side 1510. In another embodiment, the first side1510 of the electrical box has a plurality of locking tabs positionednear an edge of the cut out near a back of the electrical box, and thesecond side of the electrical box has a plurality of slits positionedfor receiving the plurality of locking tabs. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 15 and 16, there are two locking tabs associated with the firstside 1510 and two slits associated with the second side 1520 of theelectrical box 1500. It should be understood, that electrical box 1500can be used alone or with another substantially similar electrical box.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of box 1500 being attached to anothersimilar box 1500′, according to an example embodiment. In the embodimentwhere at least two electrical boxes are connected, the first side 1510of one electrical box 1500 is connected to the second side 1520′ of theother electrical box 1500′ to form a two-gang box. Additional boxes 1500can be added to form a three-gang box, a four-gang box or box with “x”number gang box. The beauty of this design is that a contractor cancarry just one style of box 1500 in inventory or on a truck. From theone style of box, a number of boxes 1500 can be assembled together tomake various sizes of boxes with a desired number of gangs. An “x” gangbox can be assembled from “x” number of boxes. So, a contractor does nothave to carry three and four gang boxes on a service truck. Rather thecontractor can form one from a number of the boxes 1500.

As shown in FIG. 17, the electrical box 1500 or insulative box alsoincludes at least one punch plate 1530 (also shown in FIGS. 15 and 16)on one or more sides of the electrical box. The at least one punch plate1530, in one embodiment, is substantially circular in shape. Theelectrical box 1500 includes an opening 1540 for receiving wire. Asshown in FIG. 17, there are a plurality of openings 1540 for receivingwire so that the installer has a number to choose from. The opening forreceiving wire 1540 further includes a first angled strain relief tab1541, and a second angled strain relief tab 1542. The first angledstrain relief tab 1541 and the second strain relief tab 1542 positionednear the opening for receiving wire. Each of the first angled strainrelief tab 1541 and the second angled strain relief tab 1542 has a freeend. The free ends of the tabs are not connected. In the embodimentshown, the free ends located near each other.

FIG. 19 is a side view of an electrical box 1500 and a box mount bracket1910, and a side plate 1940, according to another embodiment of theinvention. The box mount bracket 1910 engages the cut out on the firstside 1510 of the electrical box 1500. The box mount bracket 1910includes a mount opening 1912 therein. The box mount bracket 1910 has amajor surface plane. The box mount bracket 1910 also includes a set oftabs 1913, 1914 which are offset from the major surface plane on a firstside of the major surface of the box mount bracket 1910. The box mountbracket 1910 also has a second set of tabs 1921, 1922, 1923, 1924 whichare offset on the second or other side of the major surface of the boxmount bracket 1910. Also included in the major surface of the box mountbracket 1910, are a series of paired openings, such as 1931, 1932. Thepaired openings 1931 and 1932 are spaced to correspond to connector tabs1514 on the first side 1510 of the box 1500 (shown in FIG. 15). The boxmount bracket 1910 also includes an anti-rotation plate 1934 which issubstantially perpendicular to the major surface of the box mountbracket 1910. The anti-rotation plate 1934 includes openings sized toreceive fasteners, such as nails. The box mount bracket 1910 is sized toengage the edges 1901 and 1902 of the cut out in the first side 1510 ofthe box 1500. The edge 1901, 1902 is positioned between the tabs. One ofthe paired set of openings, such as 1931, 1932, is selected so that thefront edge of the box 1500 is offset with respect to the anti-rotationplate 1934. The amount of offset is generally set so that the front ofthe box protrudes forward substantially equal to the thickness of thewall covering. For example, one of the sets of tabs results in the frontface of the box 1500 being approximately 0.5 inches in front of theanti-rotation plate 1934. Sheet rock of a thickness of 0.5 inch can beplaced on the wall and the front face of the electrical box will besubstantially flush with respect to the surface of the sheetrock.

A mounting tube assembly 1950 is mountable to the mount opening 1912 ofthe box mount bracket 1910. The mounting tube assembly 1950 furtherincludes a first tubular member 1952 having a length at leastsubstantially equal to the width of a stud; and a second member 1954fittable within the first tubular member 1952. The second member 1954further includes a tubular main body 1956, a first end and, a secondend. The first end includes a stop 1957. The first end and stop 1957engaging the mount opening 1934 in the box mount bracket 1910. Thesecond end of the mounding tube includes a slotted flange 1958. Thesecond end of the mounting tube also has slots therein that extendthrough a portion of the slotted flange 1958 and through a portion ofthe tubular main body 1954 of the mounting tube assembly. The areasbetween the slots forming at least two bendable fingers 1959 that bendto allow the second end to pass through the tubular first member 1952 asit is fitted to the first tubular member 1952. The box mount bracket1910 includes a shoulder 1960 adapted to abut the sidewall of the boxmount bracket 1910. The shoulder 1960 stops the mounting tube assembly1950 from passing completely through the opening 1934. The slottedflange 1958 moves inward as the fingers 1959 of the second tubularmember bend. The slotted flange 1958 has an outer diameter larger thanthe outer diameter of the first tubular member 1952.

The mount opening 1912 is cylindrical and has an axial axis. Theshoulder 1960 is attached to a free end of the second tubular member1954 and is substantially perpendicular to the axial axis of the mountopening 1912. The shoulder 1960 is adapted to substantially preventrotation of the side plate. The tabs of the box mount bracket 1910prevent rotation of the box mount bracket 1910. The shoulder 1960 has anouter diameter which is greater than the inner diameter of the mountopening 1912 of the box mount bracket 1910.

The electrical box 1500 also includes a slide bracket 1940. The boxmount bracket 1910 can leave an opening in the electrical box 1500 whenthe box mount bracket 1910 is positioned to produce the offset of thenail place 1934 with respect to the front face of the electrical box1500. The slide bracket includes a first ear 1042 and a second ear 1942.The ears 1941, 1942 engage notches 1903, 1904 in the edges of theopening in the first side 1510 of the electrical box 1500. The slottedflange, in one embodiment, has a diameter that is greater than the outerdiameter of the first tubular member. The slide bracket 1940 has alength substantially equal to or slightly greater than the depth of theopening in the first side 1510 of the electrical box 1500. The sidebracket 1940 will cover any opening left by the box mount bracket 1910.When installed, the side bracket 1940 extends along the length of theopening in the first side wall 1510 of the electrical box 1500. The ears1942, 1941 attach to the notches 1904, 1903 when fully installed. Theslide bracket 1940 also includes a series of tabs 1944, 1945 that appearas teeth along the inside of the slide bracket 1940. The pairs of tabs1944, 1945 that look like teeth is actually a set of strain relief tabsthat capture any wire, such as Romex or the like, that is passed throughthe tabs 1944, 1945. Typically, the wire will be passed through themounting tube assembly 1950. The mounting tube assembly 1950 protectsthe wire from fasteners placed in a wall stud after installation of wallboard or sheet rock.

The box mount bracket 1910 moves with respect to the electrical orinsulative box 1500. The box 1500 is made of electrically insulativematerial, such as plastic, in one embodiment. The insulative boxincludes a set of tabs 1514 that engage the box mount bracket 1910 atvarious positions of the box mount bracket 1910 with respect to theinsulative box. The box mount bracket 1910 moves with respect to theinsulative box so that the insulative box 1500 can be moved to aplurality of positions flush with a finished wall. In this way, thesetback distance can be adjusted so that the insulative box orelectrical box 1500 is substantially flush with respect to the finishedwall. The box mount bracket 1910 moves with respect to the insulativebox, and the insulative box includes a set of locking tabs 1514 thatengage the box mount bracket 1910 at one end of its travel. Theelectrical box 1500 accommodates a plurality of duplex electricaloutlets. In one embodiment, the electrical box 1500 accommodates atleast one duplex electrical outlet. In still another embodiment, thefirst tubular member 1952 is made of a material that resists penetrationby a fastener. The first tubular member 1952 is made of material thathas an exterior surface with a Rockwell Hardness Index in the range of120 to 200. The first tubular member 1952 is made of a metal, ceramic ora composite of two or more materials or the like.

A box mount bracket 1910 is adapted to engage an electrical box 1500.The box mount bracket 1910 includes a mount which has a mount opening1912 therein. A mounting tube or mounting tube assembly 1950 ismountable to the mount opening 1912. The mounting tube assembly 1950further includes first tubular member 1952 having a length at leastsubstantially equal to the width of a stud, and a second member 1954fittable within the first tubular member 1952. The second member 1954also includes a tubular main body, a first end including a stop 1957 anda second end including a slotted flange 1958. The first end and stop1957 engages the mount opening 1957 in the box mount bracket 1910. Theslots in the second end extend through a portion of the slotted flange1958 and through a portion of the tubular main body. The areas betweenthe slots form at least two bendable fingers 1959 that bend to allow thesecond end to pass through the tubular first member 1952 as it is fittedto the first tubular member 1952. In one embodiment, the tubular mainbody of the first tubular member 1952 is substantially equal to thewidth of a stud into which the mount assembly is adapted to pass. Itshould be noted that studs used in residential housing are generallywooden 2×4's and 2×6's. These studs, when dry, are typically 1.5 inchesin width. It should be noted that the width of studs can be varied andthis invention is not limited to use in a typical residentialapplication. The invention could be used on steel “2×4's” used incommercial construction for example. The mounting assembly 1950 and boxmount bracket 1910 made of material so that the mounting assembly 1950can support an electrical box 1500 after the mounting assembly 1950 ispositioned in a support.

FIG. 20A is a perspective view of the box 1500 as assembled with the boxmount bracket 1910, mounting tube or mounting tube assembly 1950, andslide bracket 1940. FIG. 20B is another perspective view of the box 1500as assembled with the box mount bracket 1910, mounting tube or mountingtube assembly 1950, and slide bracket 1940.

Most generally, the electrical box system can be thought of as includinga base electrical box, and an end portion. The end portion is added tothe base electrical box to substantially complete the electrical box. Insome embodiments, the electrical box includes at least one intermediateportion that is added to complete the electrical box. The at least oneintermediate portion, in some embodiments, is placed between the baseelectric box and the end portion which is added to the electrical box.In some embodiments, the intermediate portion is placed between the baseelectrical box and the end portion. In some embodiments, theintermediate portion is placed after the end portion has been attachedto the base. In other embodiments, the intermediate portion is added orattached to the base before the end portion is added to complete theelectrical box. In some embodiments, there can be one or moreintermediate portions that do not directly connect to the base or theend portion. The box is literally built to size out in the field. Insome embodiments, the resulting box has a size to accommodate a singlegang electrical component. In other embodiments, the resulting box has asize to accommodate a plurality of single gang electrical components.This is generally referred to as a multiple gang box or a 2 gang, 3gang, 4 gang, etc. sized electrical box. In another embodiment, at leastsome of the intermediate portions are substantially identical parts. Instill further embodiments, at least one or some of the intermediateportions are substantially identical to the base electrical box.

Various embodiments are detailed as discussed and illustrated in FIGS.17-20A Yet another embodiment of such as system is shown in FIGS. 32-34.FIG. 32 is a perspective view of an alternative box 3210 or base, and anend portion 3220, according to an example embodiment. FIG. 33 is aperspective view of an alternative box 3210 and an intermediate portion3300, according to an example embodiment. FIG. 34 is perspective view ofan alternative box 3210, a plurality of intermediate portions 3300 andan end portion 3220 assembled into a multiple gang electrical box 3400,according to an example embodiment. In this embodiment, a multiple gangbox can be custom made from a base or alternative box 3210, any numberof intermediate portions 3300 and an end portion 3220. The intermediateportions 3300 are fit to the base or alternate box 3210 and to oneanother to form the multiple gang box 3400 shown in FIG. 34. This issimilar to the previously discussed system. Among the differences isthat the intermediate portion 3300 differs from the base or alternativebox portion 3210. This system also allows the construction person toconstruct boxes from fewer parts and therefore allows the person in thefield to have to carry fewer parts when compared to carry a number ofvarious gang number boxes. The embodiment detailed in FIGS. 17-20A hasthe advantage that the base box and the intermediate part issubstantially similar or the same.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an electrical box 2100 foraccommodating at least two duplex electrical outlets, according to anexample embodiment. The electrical box 2100 includes a first side 2110having a mount opening 2111 therein, and a second side 2120. The mountopening 2111 is adapted to receive a mounting system 1550 that includesthe box mount bracket 1910, mounting tube or mounting tube assembly1950, and slide bracket 1940. The electrical box without the additionalcomponents or elements is shown in FIG. 21. The electrical box 2100shown in FIG. 21 includes a location 2113 for a first duplex electricaloutlet and a location 2114 for a second duplex electrical outlet. Manyof the components and features of the electrical box 2100 aresubstantially similar to the electrical box 1500 discussed above. Theelements of the electrical box 2100 which are similar or substantiallythe same will carry the same number as the electrical box 1500.Furthermore, rather than redescribe the same features again, thespecification will key in on at least some of the differences betweenthe box 2100 and the box 1500. Among the differences is that theelectrical box 2100 is wider than the electrical box 1500. Theelectrical box 2100 has several more punch plates 1530 (two additionalpunchouts) associated with the additional location 2114. The additionallocation 2114 also includes four more of openings 1540 for receivingwire so that the installer has a number to choose from. Each additionalopening for receiving wire 1540 further includes a first angled strainrelief tab 1541, and a second angled strain relief tab 1542. The firstangled strain relief tab 1541 and the second strain relief tab 1542positioned near the opening for receiving wire. Each of the first angledstrain relief tab 1541 and the second angled strain relief tab 1542 hasa free end. The free ends of the tabs are not connected. In theembodiment shown, the free ends located near each other. This allows theinstaller to select a wire port for the duplex electrical outletinstalled at the second location 2114. Yet another difference is thatthe exterior portion of the second wall 2120 can either carry the samefeatures at the exterior portion of the second wall 1520 of electricalbox 1500. In an alternative embodiment, the box 2100 is devoid of thesefeatures.

FIG. 22A is a perspective view of the box 2100 as assembled with the boxmount bracket 1910, mounting tube or mounting tube assembly 1950, andslide bracket 1940. FIG. 22B is another perspective view of the box 2100as assembled with the box mount bracket 1910, mounting tube or mountingtube assembly 1950, and slide bracket 1940. The with the box mountbracket 1910 is attached and adjusted in the same way as discussed withrespect to electrical box 1900. The mounting tube or mounting tubeassembly 1950 of the electrical box 2100 is installed in substantiallythe same way. The slide bracket 1940 completes the adjustable box 2100.The box 2100 can be adjusted so that it mounts flush with variousthicknesses of wall board.

Many embodiments are envisioned. For example, boxes could bemanufactured with various numbers of gangs and include the openings forreceiving the mounting tube assembly 1950 and the slide bracket 1940.

It is also contemplated that a boxed with a fixed mounting tube assemblycould be manufactured with any number of gangs. FIG. 23 shows a two gangbox having a fixed offset and an opening for the mounting tube assembly1950, according to another example embodiment. The offset of themounting tube assembly would be fixed. The depth of the recess would notbe adjustable. Most likely, contractors and the like would carry themost commonly used boxes in their inventory. For example, if acontractor did mostly residential work he or she might stock one and twogang boxes with a fixed 0.5 inch offset. The box would haveanti-rotation plate 0.5 inch from the front face of the box and alsowould have an opening for receiving the mounting tube assembly 1950molded into the box.

The mounting tube would be mountable to the mount opening. The mountingtube further includes a first tubular member having a first length, anda second member fittable within the first tubular member. The secondmember further includes a tubular main body including a tubular portionfittable within the first tubular member. The second member has a firstend including a stop, and a second end including a slotted flange. Thestop of the first end engages the mount opening in the second side of abox, which in some embodiments may be non adjustable. The slotted flangeof the second end has slots therein that extend through a portion of theslotted flange and through a portion of the tubular main body. The areasbetween the slots forming at least two bendable fingers that bend toallow the second end to pass through the tubular first member. The boxcan be multiple sizes. The electrical box may be sized to accommodate atleast one duplex electrical outlet, at least two duplex electricaloutlets, at least three duplex electrical outlets, or more. In sum, thebox can be sized to fit one or a plurality of duplex electrical outlets.The first tubular portion of the electrical box is made of a materialthat resists puncture by a fastener. In one embodiment, the firsttubular portion is made of a metal that resists puncture by a fastener.The mounting tube, in one embodiment, is separable from the second sideof the box. In other words, the mounting tube is removably mounted tothe second side of the box. It can be attached in a secure fashion andremoved and remounted. The electrical box also includes at least onestrain relief opening having a first canted portion and a second cantedportion. A free end of the first canted portion is positioned near afree end of the second canted portion. The electrical box can alsoinclude punch outs.

An electrical box for accommodating at least one duplex electricaloutlet includes a first side, a second side, and a mounting tubeattached to one of the first side or the second side. The mounting tubefurther includes a first tubular member having a first length, and asecond member fittable within the first tubular member. The secondmember further comprises a tubular main body including a tubular portionfittable within the first tubular member. The tubular member includes afirst end attached to one of the first side or the second side of theelectrical box, and a second end including a slotted flange. The secondend has slots therein that extend through a portion of the slottedflange and through a portion of the tubular main body. The areas betweenthe slots form at least two bendable fingers that bend to allow thesecond end to pass through the tubular first member. The electrical box,in different embodiments, accommodates one duplex electrical outlet, atleast two duplex electrical outlets, or at least three duplex electricaloutlets. In other words, the electrical box can accommodate one or aplurality of duplex electrical outlets. The first tubular portion ismade of a material that resists puncture by a fastener. The firsttubular portion is made of a metal, such as steel. Other materials caninclude a ceramic or composite material. The first tubular member can beformed with various lengths for different applications. In oneembodiment, the first tubular member has a first length for adapted toextend through at least the thickness of one stud. The first tubularmember can also be a length adapted to extend through at least thethickness of two studs, three studs or a plurality of studs.

FIG. 24 is a flow chart for a method 2400 of mounting an electrical box,according to an example embodiment. The method 2400 for mounting anelectrical box includes providing an opening in a side of the electricalbox 2410, attaching a tubular portion that includes a protective layerto the side of the box 2412, and inserting the tubular portion into acorresponding opening in a structural member 2414. In some embodiments,the electrical box is nailed into place 2416.

FIG. 25 is a flow chart for a method 2500 of mounting an electrical boxto a structural element of a building, according to an exampleembodiment. The method 2500 for mounting an electrical box to astructural element of a building includes drilling an opening in astructural element 2510, passing a tubular portion associated with anelectrical box through the opening in the structural element 2512, andlocking the tubular portion in position with respect to the structuralelement 2514 t. A sleeve can be placed over the tubular portion 2518.The sleeve can be made of a material that resists puncture by afastener. The sleeve can be a metallic material, a ceramic material, ofa composite material. The tubular portion can be affixed or attached tothe electrical box in any manner. In another embodiment, the tubularportion is constructed to connect to the electrical box. In stillanother embodiment, the tubular element interacts with the electricalbox, and supports the electrical box. The tubular element is made ofsufficiently strong material and designed so that an electrical box canbe supported on one end of the tubular element. The electrical box iscantilevered off of one end of the tubular element.

FIG. 26 is a flow chart for a method 2600 of wiring a building oredifice, according to an example embodiment. The method 2600 of wiringan edifice includes drilling an opening in a plurality of structuralelements 2610, passing a tubular portion through at least one of thestructural elements 2612, locking the tubular portion in a position2614, passing a tubular portion attached to an electrical box to atleast one other of the plurality of structural elements 2616, andlocking the tubular portion attached to the electrical box in position2618. The method 2600 further includes passing wire through theplurality of openings in the structural elements 2618. Drilling anopening in a plurality of structural elements includes placing theopenings at substantially the same level in each of the plurality ofstructural elements. Some embodiments employ a jig to place the openingsat substantially the same level in each of the plurality of structuralelements, and to place the openings at a substantially equal distancefrom an exposed edge of the structural elements. The jig also aids inplacing the openings at a substantially equal distance from an exposededge of the structural elements, and in making the plurality of openingssubstantially perpendicular to the plurality of structural elements. Thejig, in some embodiments includes an adjustable leg which can beadjusted and fixed at a height above the floor or above a base board.The jig can be used so that a plurality of openings in the structuralelements are at substantially the same distance above a floor. In someembodiments, the jig is provided with a device for following a line. Aline is formed at a set distance from a reference point. For example,the line can be formed at a distance above a floor or a reference pointon the floor. The line can also be leveled with a level. A chalk linecan be snapped to form a set of lines across a structural such as aplurality of studs that form a wall in an edifice. In another embodimentthe line can be formed using a laser beam. This would “mark” the heighton the structural element. As mentioned, the line on the structuralelements are formed at substantially the same distance above a floor.This may be useful for complying with electrical code laws in variouslocalities. The jig can also include a feature for aligning to the lineformed on a structural element. In another embodiment, the method 2600further includes placing a tubular portion in each of the openings thatwill have a wire passing therethrough 2618, and running wire through thetubular portions 2620. In still another embodiment, the method 2600includes placing a tubular portion in each of the openings in theplurality of structural elements 2622, connecting adjacent openings withan elongated tube to form a pathway between tubular elements 2624, andrunning wire through the tubular elements and the elongated tubes. Inone embodiment, the tubes are spring loaded so that the length can beshortened for installation. The spring elongating the tube to engage thetubular portions to complete the installation.

FIG. 27 is top view of a tie 2700 for holding an electrical wire or aplurality of electrical wires, according to an example embodiment. FIG.28 is side view of a tie 2700 holding an electrical wire or a pluralityof electrical wires (not shown), according to an example embodiment.FIG. 29 is a top view of a base 2900, according to an exampleembodiment. FIG. 30 is a side view of a base 2900, according to anexample embodiment. Now referring to FIGS. 27, 28, 29 and 30, the tieand base will be further detailed. The base 2900 includes a base surface2910. The base surface 2910 includes a substantially flat surface 2912.The base also includes a surface 2914 opposite the substantially flatsurface 2912. The surface 2914 includes a fastener opening 2916 therein.The surface 2914 also includes an upright 2920 that has an opening 2922therein. The opening 2922 can also be termed as a tie opening. Theopening is sized to receive a portion of the tie 2700. The base isattached to a structural element in the absence of electrical wire. Thislessens the chance that the electrical wire might be damaged.

The tie 2700 for holding electrical wire (not shown) includes a baseengaging portion 2710 and a wire or multiwire engaging portion 2712. Thewire engaging portion 2712 has a length substantially equal to thecircumference of the wire or multiple wire package used in wiring. Oneexample of multiwire package is Romex. Several wires are included andwrapped in a sheath of thin, flexible material. The base 2900 includes atie opening 2922 therein. The zip tie 2700 is adapted to hold wire, suchas Romex wire with the wire engaging portion 2712. Put another way, thezip tie 2700 further includes a first portion 2712 having a first width,and a second portion 2710 having a second width lesser than the firstwidth. The tie opening 2922 in the base 2900 is sufficient to allow thesecond portion 2710 of the tie 2700 to pass therethrough, but too smallto allow the first portion 2712 of the tie 2700 to pass therethrough.The tie 2700 also includes a connector 2732 on the free end 2734 of thefirst portion 2712 sized to receive the second portion 2710 of the tie2700. The connector 2732 includes a pawl like extension or pawl liketeeth internal to the connector 2732. The zip tie 2700 includes aplurality of ridges 2740 that engage the pawl like teeth in theconnector 2732. The pawl like portion of the connector engages at leastone of the plurality of ridges 2740. The ridges 2740 run substantiallydown the length of the zip tie 2700, in one embodiment. At least thesecond portion 2710 includes a plurality of ridges transverse to thelength of the second portion. In other words, the ridges cross the widthof at least the second portion 2710 of the zip tie 2700. Put anotherway, the connector includes a ratcheting mechanism for attaching to atleast one of the plurality of ridges on the second portion 2710 of thetie 2700. The first portion 2712 of the tie has a length substantiallyequal to the outside circumference of the electrical wire. In this way,the outer portion of the wire may be more fully supported by theincreased width. The fastener or connector in the base 2910, in oneembodiment is a screw. In another embodiment, the fastener is a sheetmetal screw that can be used in wooden studs, commonly used inresidential building, and that can be used in metal studs, more commonlyused in commercial building. The fastener can be retained with the tie2700, in some embodiments. In this way, a user does not need to find aseparate fastener when picking up a tie 2700 to use. This saves timeduring installation and routing of wires, such as romex style wire. Inone embodiment, a screw which is installed in the fastener opening 2712so that the screw can be turned during installation and will not fallout. More specifically, the screw has an unthreaded portion near thehead of the screw. The unthreaded portion has a length or width slightlymore than the thickness of the base 2710. With an unthreaded portion ofa length or width slightly more than the thickness of the base, thescrew can turn freely while being held within the opening. The screwhead and the threads retain the screw, in one embodiment.

FIG. 31 is a flow diagram of a method for holding an electricalconductor, according to an example embodiment. The method 3100 forholding an electrical conductor includes defining a path for theelectrical conductor 3110, attaching a first zip tie along the path3112, and attaching a second zip tie 3114 at another position along thedefined path. It should be noted that the path does not have to befollowed exactly or precisely. The method 3100 also includes placing anelectrical conductor near the first zip tie 3116 and zipping the firstzip 3118 tie to hold the electrical conductor. Another portion of theelectrical conductor is placed near the second zip tie 3120 and zippedto the second zip tie 3122 to hold the other portion of the electricalconductor. The path can include a plurality of these types of ties. Thezip tie is attached before the wire is attached. In other words,attaching the device to a structure is done without having the wirenearby. This reduces the chance of failure caused by striking theconductor inadvertently during installation. In prior art methods, astaple like device holding two nails is placed over the Romex wire andthen the nails are pounded into place. A slip of the hammer can damagethe internal wires.

The first zip tie includes a fastener portion for receiving andretaining a fastener. Similarly, the second zip tie also includes afastener portion for receiving and retaining a fastener. The fastenercan be a nail or a screw or the like. In one embodiment, the fastener isa sheet metal screw. The sheet metal screw can be used to attach tovarious building materials, such as wood used in residentialapplications and metal more commonly used in commercial applications.Attaching the first zip tie along the path includes placing the fastenerportion on a structure and turning the screw. Similarly, attaching thesecond zip tie along the path includes placing the fastener portion on astructure and turning the screw. The zip ties have a narrow widthassociated with the fastener portion and a wide width associated withthe portion for holding the electrical conductor. The wider portiondistributes the force over a larger area and lessens the possibilitythat one conductor with insulation might be forced into electricalcontact with another conductor. The wider portion cradles the electricalwire or electrical wires. For example, in a Romex type conductor whichholds three conductors (positive, negative and ground), the conductorsare cradled with a lesser pressure since the force is distributed over alarger area. This provides for a safer installation of the wire set.

A system for holding an electrical conductor (not shown) includes afirst base 2900 attached to a structure, and a second base 2900 attachedto the structure. The first and second bases 2900 are attached along apath for an electrical conductor. Both the first and second basesreceive the narrow portion 2710 of the zip ties 2700. This leaves thewider portion 2712 open to receive the electrical conductor. Theelectrical conductor is attached to the bases 2900 after being attachedto the structure. In other words, when the electrical conductor isattached the structure, the wide portion 2712 of the zip ties 2700 areopen so that the electrical conductor can be received or cradledtherein. Once the electrical conductor is placed in the first and secondzip tie 2700, and zipped, a first electrical conductor portion is heldby the first zip tie 2700, and a second electrical conductor portionheld by the second zip tie 2700. The first zip tie 2910 has a firstwidth and a second width. The first width is narrower than the secondwidth and used to attach the first zip tie 2700 to the first baseattachment portion. The second width having a length substantially equalto the circumference of the electrical conductor. The electricalconductor (not shown), in one embodiment, includes at least two wires.In another embodiment, the electrical conductor includes three insulatedwires covered by a sheath. Such a conductor is available as Romex wiringand is commonly used when wiring in residential construction. Incommercial applications the sheath is a cable.

In the claims provided herein, the steps specified to be taken in aclaimed method or process may be carried out in any order withoutdeparting from the principles of the invention, except when a temporalor operational sequence is explicitly defined by claim language.Recitation in a claim to the effect that first a step is performed, thenseveral other steps are performed, shall be taken to mean that the firststep is performed before any of the other steps, but the other steps maybe performed in any sequence unless a sequence is further specifiedwithin the other steps. For example, claim elements that recite “firstA, then B, C, and D, and lastly E” shall be construed to mean step Amust be first, step E must be last but steps B, C, and D may be carriedout in my sequence between steps A and E and the process of thatsequence will still fall within the four corners of the claim.

Furthermore, in the claims provided herein, specified steps may becarried out concurrently unless explicit claim language requires thatthey be carried out separately or as parts of different processingoperations. For example, a claimed step of doing X and a claimed step ofdoing Y may be conducted simultaneously within a single operation, andthe resulting process will be covered by the claim. Thus, a step ofdoing X, a step of doing Y, and a step of doing Z may be conductedsimultaneously within a single process step, or in two separate processsteps, or in three separate process steps, and that process will stillfall within the four corners of a claim that recites those three steps.

Similarly, except as explicitly required by claim language, a singlesubstance or component may meet more than a single functionalrequirement, provided that the single substance or component fulfillsthe more than one functional requirement as specified by claim language.

All patents, patent applications, publications, scientific articles, websites, and other documents and materials referenced or mentioned hereinare indicative of the levels of skill of those skilled in the art towhich the invention pertains, and each such referenced document andmaterial is hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if ithad been incorporated by reference in its entirety individually or setforth herein in its entirety. Additionally, all claims in thisapplication, and all priority applications, including but not limited tooriginal claims, are hereby incorporated in their entirety into, andform a part of, the written description of the invention.

Applicant reserves the right to physically incorporate in to thisspecification any and all materials and information from any suchpatents, applications, publications, scientific articles, web sites,electronically available information, and other referenced materials ordocuments. Applicant reserves the right to physically incorporate intoany part of this document, including any part of the writtendescription, the claims referred to above including but not limited toany original claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for mounting an electrical box to astructural element of a building comprising: drilling an opening in astructural element; passing a tubular portion associated with anelectrical box through the opening in the structural element; lockingthe tubular portion in position with respect to the structural element.2. The method of claim 1 further comprising placing a sleeve over thetubular portion, the sleeve of a material that resists puncture by afastener.
 3. The method of claim 1 further comprising placing a sleeveover the tubular portion, the sleeve of a metallic material.
 4. Themethod of claim 1 further comprising placing a sleeve over the tubularportion, the sleeve of a ceramic material.
 5. The method of claim 1further comprising placing a sleeve over the tubular portion, the sleeveof a composite material.
 6. The method of claim 1 further comprisingaffixing the tubular portion to the electrical box.
 7. The method ofclaim 6 wherein the tubular portion is constructed to connect to theelectrical box.
 8. The method of claim 6 wherein the tubular elementinteracts with the electrical box, and supports the electrical box
 9. Amethod of wiring an edifice comprising: drilling an opening in aplurality of structural elements; passing a tubular portion through atleast one of the structural elements; locking the tubular portion in aposition; passing a tubular portion attached to an electrical box to atleast one other of the plurality of structural elements; and locking thetubular portion attached to the electrical box in position.
 10. Themethod of claim 9 further comprising passing wire through the pluralityof openings in the structural elements.
 11. The method of claim 9wherein drilling an opening in a plurality of structural elementsincludes placing the openings at substantially the same level in each ofthe plurality of structural elements.
 12. The method of claim 9 whereindrilling an opening in a plurality of structural elements includesemploying a jig to place the openings at substantially the same level ineach of the plurality of structural elements, and to place the openingsat a substantially equal distance from an exposed edge of the structuralelements.
 13. The method of claim 1 wherein drilling an opening in aplurality of structural elements includes employing a jig to place theopenings at substantially the same level in each of the plurality ofstructural elements, and to place the openings at a substantially equaldistance from an exposed edge of the structural elements, and making theplurality of openings substantially perpendicular to the plurality ofstructural elements.
 14. The method of claim 13 wherein employing a jigincludes fitting the jig with a leg, the length of the leg adjustable sothat a plurality of openings in the structural elements are atsubstantially the same distance above a floor.
 15. The method of claim13 wherein employing a jig includes providing the jig with a device forfollowing a line, a line formed at a set distance from a referencepoint.
 16. The method of claim 16 further comprising forming a line onthe structural elements are at substantially the same distance above afloor.
 17. The method of claim 16 wherein the jig the line formed issubstantially level.
 18. The method of claim 16 wherein the jig includesa feature for aligning to the line formed on a structural element. 19.The method of claim 9 further comprising: placing a tubular portion ineach of the openings that will have a wire passing there through: andrunning wire through the tubular portions.
 20. The method of claim 9further comprising: placing a tubular portion in each of the openings inthe plurality of structural elements; connecting adjacent openings withan elongated tube to form a pathway between tubular elements; andrunning wire through the tubular elements and the elongated tubes. 21.The method of claim 20 further comprising spring loading the tubes sothat the length can be shortened, the spring elongating the tube toengage the tubular portions.